Cleaner
The vacuum cleaner's innovative design addresses inefficiencies in dust removal and force requirements by integrating a cleaning unit that sweeps both filter surfaces and positions the center of gravity near the handle, enhancing performance and ergonomics while minimizing size.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/KR2024/010443
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-06-13
- Filing Date
- 2024-07-19
- Publication Date
- 2025-01-30
AI Technical Summary
Existing vacuum cleaners face inefficiencies in removing dust accumulated in filters, particularly the second filter, which affects suction performance, and require excessive force to operate due to the distance between the cleaning unit and the operation lever, and have a suboptimal center of gravity distribution.
The design incorporates a cleaning unit that can sweep dust from both the first and second filter surfaces with a mechanism allowing easy dust removal by pushing or pulling an operation lever, minimizing the distance between the lever and the cleaning unit, and positions the center of gravity close to the handle for reduced effort, with the first filter outside and the second filter inside a cyclone unit to minimize size.
This design enhances filter and suction performance, reduces the force required to operate the vacuum cleaner, and minimizes its overall size by allowing efficient dust removal and improved ergonomics.
Smart Images

Figure KR2024010443_30012025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
vacuum cleaner
[0001] The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner.
[0002]
[0003] In general, a vacuum cleaner is a home appliance that uses electricity to suck up air and fills a dust bin inside the product with small pieces of trash or dust. It is commonly called a vacuum cleaner.
[0004] These vacuum cleaners can be categorized into manual vacuum cleaners, which the user moves to clean, and automatic vacuum cleaners, which clean by moving around on their own. Manual vacuum cleaners can be categorized by type, including canister vacuum cleaners, upright vacuum cleaners, handheld vacuum cleaners, and stick vacuum cleaners.
[0005] In the past, canister-type vacuum cleaners were widely used in household vacuum cleaners, but recently, handheld vacuum cleaners and stick vacuum cleaners that provide the dust bin and vacuum cleaner body as an integrated unit, which improves convenience, are being widely used.
[0006] Canister-type vacuum cleaners have a main body and suction inlet connected by a rubber hose or pipe, and in some cases, a brush can be inserted into the suction inlet for use.
[0007] Handheld vacuum cleaners maximize portability. They are lightweight, but their short length limits the cleaning area they can be used in while seated. Therefore, they are used for cleaning small areas, such as desks, sofas, or inside cars.
[0008] Stick vacuums can be used standing up, allowing for cleaning without bending down. This makes them ideal for moving around and cleaning large areas. While handheld vacuums are suitable for cleaning tight spaces, stick vacuums can clean wider areas and reach high, out-of-reach places. Recently, stick vacuums have been offered in modular configurations, allowing users to actively adapt the vacuum to suit a variety of applications.
[0009] Meanwhile, International Patent Publication No. 2023-089298 discloses a dust separator.
[0010] The dust separator according to the above prior art includes a first filter that separates dust from air drawn in through an air inlet, a second filter that separates dust again from air that has passed through the first filter, and a wiper blade that directly removes dust accumulated on the first filter while moving in an up-and-down direction and indirectly shakes off dust accumulated on the second filter.
[0011] The dust separator of the above prior art is structured so that when the suction motor operates, air passes from the outer surface of the first filter to the inner surface, and the air passing through the first filter passes from the inner surface of the second filter to the outer surface, so that dust accumulates on the outer surface of the first filter and the inner surface of the second filter.
[0012] Accordingly, the dust separator of the above-mentioned prior art can directly sweep away dust accumulated on the outer surface of the first filter as the wiper blade moves up and down, and at the same time, the protrusion connected to the wiper blade can hit the outer surface of the second filter to shake off dust accumulated on the inner surface of the second filter.
[0013] However, according to the above-mentioned prior art, while moving the wiper blade can directly remove dust accumulated on the first filter, it has the limitation of being inefficient in removing dust accumulated on the second filter. Therefore, if dust accumulated on the second filter is not removed, there is a problem of reduced suction performance of the dust separator.
[0014]
[0015] The present invention was created to improve the above-mentioned problems, and the object of the present invention is to provide a vacuum cleaner that can remove dust accumulated in at least one filter with a simple action of a user pushing or pulling an operating lever.
[0016] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a vacuum cleaner that can improve the filtration performance of a filter and the suction performance of a suction motor by directly sweeping the surface where dust accumulates among the outer and inner surfaces of each filter.
[0017] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a vacuum cleaner that can minimize the force required by a user to move the operating lever by minimizing the distance between the cleaning unit that removes dust accumulated in the first filter and the second filter and the operating lever that moves the cleaning unit.
[0018] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a vacuum cleaner that can be moved by a user with minimal force by positioning the overall center of gravity of the vacuum cleaner as close as possible to the handle that the user holds.
[0019] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a vacuum cleaner whose overall size can be minimized by having a first filter disposed on the outside of a second cyclone section and a second filter disposed on the inside of a second cyclone section.
[0020]
[0021] In order to solve the above-described problem, a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention comprises: a main body including a dust bin in which dust is stored; a suction unit guiding air into the dust bin; a first filter at least partially disposed inside the dust bin and filtering dust from air drawn in through the suction unit; a second filter filtering dust from air passing through the first filter; and a cleaning unit movably disposed with respect to the first filter and the second filter; wherein the first filter includes a first filter surface on which first dust, which is dust filtered by the first filter, accumulates; and the second filter includes a second filter surface on which second dust, which is dust filtered by the second filter, accumulates; and the cleaning unit can sweep the first dust and the second dust from the first filter surface and the second filter surface, respectively.
[0022] In addition, the vacuum cleaner according to the first embodiment of the present invention further includes a suction motor that generates a suction airflow so that air is sucked in through the suction unit; and a virtual suction motor axis line extending from the rotational axis of the suction motor and the longitudinal axis of the dust bin can intersect each other.
[0023] The above suction unit and the above suction motor may be arranged on opposite sides with respect to the longitudinal axis of the dustbin.
[0024] The above body may further include a filter housing that is detachably connected to the dust bin and accommodates the second filter.
[0025] A filter entrance / exit portion through which the filter enters / exits may be formed on one side of the filter housing.
[0026] The cleaning unit may include a first movable part that moves along a space between the first filter surface and the inner surface of the dust bin within the dust bin; a second movable part that moves along a space between the second filter surface and the inner surface of the filter housing within the filter housing; and a connecting part that penetrates the filter housing and connects the first movable part and the second movable part.
[0027] The cleaning unit may further include: an operating housing coupled to the main body; a guide member extending in the direction of movement of the first movable part and the second movable part from inside the operating housing; an operating lever that moves along the guide member and at least a portion of which is exposed to the outside; and an elastic member disposed on the guide member, one side of which is connected to the operating lever and the other side of which is connected to the connecting part.
[0028] The above filter entrance can be opened toward the direction in which the elastic member is elastically restored.
[0029] The above connecting portion and the above guide member may be placed in the same quadrant among four quadrants defined by a horizontal center line crossing the center of the dustbin and a vertical center line crossing the center of the dustbin.
[0030] Additionally, in the vacuum cleaner according to the second embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the second filter may be disposed inside the first filter.
[0031] The above first filter and the above second filter can form a coaxial structure.
[0032] The above body may further include a filter housing disposed inside the dustbin and accommodating at least a portion of the second filter.
[0033] In addition, the cleaner according to the second embodiment of the present invention may further include a plurality of cyclone bodies arranged inside the filter housing and arranged to surround the second filter with the second filter as the center.
[0034] The cleaning unit may include a first movable part that moves along a space between the first filter surface and the inner surface of the dust bin within the dust bin; a second movable part that moves along a space between the second filter surface and the inner surface of the filter housing within the filter housing; and a connecting part that penetrates the filter housing and connects the first movable part and the second movable part.
[0035] The cleaning unit may further include: an operating housing coupled to the main body; a guide member extending in the direction of movement of the first movable part and the second movable part from inside the operating housing; an operating lever that moves along the guide member and at least a portion of which is exposed to the outside; and an elastic member disposed on the guide member, one side of which is connected to the operating lever and the other side of which is connected to the connecting part.
[0036] The above connecting portion and the above guide member may be placed in the same quadrant among four quadrants defined by a horizontal center line crossing the center of the dustbin and a vertical center line crossing the center of the dustbin.
[0037]
[0038] As described above, the vacuum cleaner according to the present invention has the effect of allowing the user to remove dust accumulated in at least one filter with a simple action of pushing or pulling the operating lever.
[0039] In addition, the present invention has the effect of improving the filtration performance of the filter and the suction performance by the suction motor by directly sweeping the surface where dust accumulates among the outer and inner surfaces of each filter.
[0040] In addition, the present invention has the effect of minimizing the distance between the cleaning unit that removes dust accumulated in the first filter and the second filter and the operating lever that moves the cleaning unit, thereby minimizing the force that the user has to move the operating lever.
[0041] In addition, the present invention has the effect of enabling the user to move the vacuum cleaner with minimal force by placing the overall center of gravity of the vacuum cleaner as close as possible to the handle held by the user.
[0042] In addition, the present invention has the effect of minimizing the overall size of the vacuum cleaner by placing the first filter on the outside of the second cyclone section and the second filter on the inside of the second cyclone section.
[0043]
[0044] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 2a is a cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
[0046] Figure 2b is a cross-sectional view showing the cleaning unit in Figure 2a moved downward.
[0047] Figure 3 is an exploded view of a vacuum cleaner according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0048] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the operating lever and elastic member of the vacuum cleaner according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0049] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the detailed configuration of a cleaning unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining the arrangement relationship between a connecting portion and a guide member according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0051] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0052] Figure 8a is a cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0053] Figure 8b is a cross-sectional view showing the cleaning unit in Figure 8a moved downward.
[0054] Figure 9 is an exploded view of a vacuum cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0055] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a filter housing according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0056] Fig. 11 is a plan view of a filter housing according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0057] Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 1-1 of Fig. 11.
[0058] FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining the arrangement relationship between a connecting portion and a guide member according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0059]
[0060] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.
[0061] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and embodiments. Specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. This is not intended to limit the invention to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.
[0062] The terminology used in this application is solely for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. Singular expressions may include plural expressions, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0063] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries, such as those defined in the present application, may be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and, unless explicitly defined herein, may not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.
[0064]
[0065] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2a is a cross-sectional view of a cleaner according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2b is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a cleaning unit is moved downward in FIG. 2a, FIG. 3 is an exploded view of a cleaner according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining an operating lever and an elastic member of a cleaner according to the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a detailed configuration of a cleaning unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining an arrangement relationship between a connecting portion and a guide member according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0066] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, a vacuum cleaner (1) according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described as follows.
[0067] A vacuum cleaner (1) may refer to a vacuum cleaner that is manually operated by a user. For example, the vacuum cleaner (1) may refer to a handheld vacuum cleaner or a stick vacuum cleaner.
[0068] Meanwhile, in one embodiment of the present invention, the direction of the cleaner (1) can be defined based on the time when the bottom surface (lower surface) of the battery housing (160) is placed on the ground.
[0069] At this time, the front may refer to the direction in which the suction unit (120) is arranged based on the suction motor (140), and the rear may refer to the direction in which the handle (150) is arranged based on the suction motor (140). In addition, when looking at the suction unit (120) from the suction motor (140), the direction in which it is arranged on the right may be referred to as the right, and the direction in which it is arranged on the left may be referred to as the left. In addition, in one embodiment of the present invention, the upper and lower sides may be defined along the direction perpendicular to the ground when the bottom surface (lower surface) of the battery housing (160) is placed on the ground.
[0070] The vacuum cleaner (1) may include a main body (100). The main body (100) may include a main body housing (110), a suction unit (120), a first cyclone unit (130), a suction motor (140), a handle (150), and an operating unit (170).
[0071] The main body housing (110) may form the exterior of the vacuum cleaner (1). The main body housing (110) may provide a space capable of accommodating a suction motor (140) and a second filter (500) therein. The main body housing (110) may be configured in a shape similar to a cylinder.
[0072] The suction unit (120) may be positioned inside the dustbin (200). For example, the suction unit (120) may be formed in the shape of a pipe with an open interior. The suction unit (120) may be coupled to an extension pipe (not shown). The suction unit (120) may provide a suction path (120a) through which air containing dust may flow.
[0073] The suction unit (120) can be coupled to the second cyclone unit (400). The suction unit (120) can be coupled to the case (310, 1310) of the second cyclone unit (400) to be described later.
[0074] At least a portion of the suction unit (120) may be arranged inside the second cyclone unit (400). Specifically, at least a portion of the suction unit (120) may be arranged to be surrounded by a plurality of cyclone bodies (410). Accordingly, at least a portion of the suction unit (120) may extend in the same direction as or parallel to the direction in which the suction motor axis (a1) extends.
[0075] The suction part (120) may be formed in a folded shape. One end of the suction part (120) may be formed to penetrate the cover body (221) of the discharge cover (220). The other end of the suction part (120) may be formed to penetrate the outer surface of the second cyclone part (400) (the outer surface of the case (310, 1310) or the first filter (320)). Accordingly, air sucked from the outside through the suction part (120) may flow through the suction path (120a) and be discharged into the dust bin (200).
[0076] A vacuum cleaner (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include at least one cyclone unit capable of separating dust by cyclone flow. For example, the vacuum cleaner (1) may include a first cyclone unit (130) and a second cyclone unit (400).
[0077] The first cyclone section (130) is a configuration that applies the principle of a dust collector that uses centrifugal force to separate dust sucked into the interior of the main body (100) through the suction section (120). That is, the first cyclone section (130) refers to a space in which a cyclone flow that rotates along the inner surface of the dust bin (200) occurs, and the first cyclone section (130) may refer to a portion of the space inside the dust bin (200).
[0078] The first cyclone unit (130) can be communicated with the suction unit (120). The first cyclone unit (130) can separate dust sucked into the interior through the suction unit (120). The space inside the first cyclone unit (130) can be communicated with the space inside the dust bin (200).
[0079] The cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone section (130) may be due to the suction force of the suction motor (140).
[0080] The cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone section (130) can be formed between the inner surface of the dustbin (200) and the outer surface of the case (310, 1310) described later. That is, the cyclone flow can be formed inside the first cyclone section (130).
[0081] The space inside the first cyclone section (130) can be communicated with the suction section (120). Air and dust sucked through the suction section (120) flow along the inner surface of the first cyclone section (130), thereby generating a cyclone flow in the inner space of the first cyclone section (130).
[0082] For example, the cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone section (130) may be formed to surround the inner circumference of the dustbin (200) in a circular shape. The air sucked in through the suction section (120) flows in a circular shape along the inner circumference of the dustbin (200) based on the central axis (a2) of the dustbin, thereby allowing a cyclone flow to occur in the inner space of the first cyclone section (130).
[0083] Specifically, when the axis (a3) of the cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone unit (130) is arranged vertically downward in the direction of gravity, the air sucked through the suction unit (120) can flow in a circular shape along the inner surface of the dustbin (200) based on the central axis (a2) of the dustbin. Alternatively, when the axis (a3) of the cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone unit (130) is arranged parallel to the ground, the air sucked through the suction unit (120) can flow in a circular shape along the inner surface of the dustbin (200) based on the central axis (a2) of the dustbin.
[0084] As another example, the cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone section (130) may be formed in a spiral shape along the inner circumference of the dustbin (200). That is, the air sucked in through the suction section (120) flows in a spiral shape along the inner circumference of the dustbin (200), thereby generating a cyclone flow in the internal space of the first cyclone section (130).
[0085] Specifically, when the axis (a3) of the cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone section (130) is arranged to be inclined with respect to the ground, the air sucked through the suction section (120) can flow in a spiral shape along the inner circumference of the dust bin (200).
[0086] The vacuum cleaner (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a second cyclone unit (400) that separates dust again from the air discharged from the first cyclone unit (130). That is, the second cyclone unit (400) can filter out small dust particles that the first cyclone unit (130) and the first filter unit (300) could not filter out from the air that passed through the first cyclone unit (130) and the first filter unit (300).
[0087] At this time, the second cyclone unit (400) may be positioned inside the first cyclone unit (130) so as to minimize the size of the vacuum cleaner (1). The second cyclone unit (400) may be positioned below the suction motor (140). Specifically, the second cyclone unit (400) may be positioned inside the first filter unit (300). That is, the first cyclone unit (130) and the second cyclone unit (400) may be positioned inside the dust bin (200) with the first filter unit (300) interposed therebetween.
[0088] The second cyclone unit (400) may include a plurality of cyclone bodies (410) arranged in parallel. Accordingly, the air discharged from the first cyclone unit (130) may pass through the first filter unit (300) and be divided and passed through the plurality of cyclone bodies (410). That is, the cyclone flow generated in the second cyclone unit (400) may be formed inside the cyclone body (410).
[0089] Meanwhile, the second cyclone section (400) may also include a single cyclone body (410), and in this case, the axis (a3) of the cyclone flow generated in the second cyclone section (400) may extend in the vertical direction.
[0090] In addition, the axis (a3) of the cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone section (130) may also extend in the vertical direction. Accordingly, the axis (a3) of the cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone section (130) and the axis (a3) of the cyclone flow generated in the second cyclone section (400) may form a coaxial line in the vertical direction or may be formed in parallel.
[0091] A storage member (311, 1311) for storing dust separated from the second cyclone unit (400) may be placed inside the dust bin (200). The storage member (311, 1311) may be connected to the lower side of the case (310, 1310) and may be in contact with the upper surface of the discharge cover (220). In addition, the lower side of the storage member (311, 1311) may be open.
[0092] The storage member (311, 1311) can divide the space inside the dust bin (200) into a first dust storage unit (311a, 311, 1311a) where dust separated from the first cyclone unit (130) is stored, and a second dust storage unit (311b, 311, 1311b) where dust separated from the second cyclone unit (400) is stored.
[0093] Accordingly, the space between the storage member (311, 1311) and the dust bin (200) can be defined as a first dust storage unit (311a, 311, 1311a), and the lower internal space of the storage member (311, 1311) can be defined as a second dust storage unit (311b, 311, 1311b).
[0094] The discharge cover (220) can open and close the first dust storage unit and the second dust storage unit together. That is, the first dust storage unit and the second dust storage unit can be exposed together to the outside.
[0095] The suction motor (140) can generate a suction airflow that sucks in air. The suction motor (140) can be accommodated within the main body housing (110).
[0096] The suction motor (140) can generate suction force by rotation. For example, the suction motor (140) can be provided in a shape similar to a cylinder.
[0097] At this time, cyclone flow may be generated by the suction force of the suction motor (140).
[0098] Specifically, when the suction motor (140) is operated, the air sucked through the suction unit (120) by the suction force of the suction motor (140) can generate a cyclone flow in the first cyclone unit (130) and / or the second cyclone unit (400).
[0099] The vacuum cleaner (1) according to the present invention may include a virtual suction motor axis (a1) extending from the rotation axis of the suction motor (140).
[0100] The suction motor (140) may be located inside the main body housing (110). In addition, the suction motor (140) may be located above the second cyclone unit (400). Accordingly, the suction motor (140) may be located above the dust bin (200).
[0101] The suction motor (140) can be connected to the outlet of the second cyclone section (400).
[0102] The axis (a3) of the cyclone flow of the first cyclone section (130) can pass through the suction motor (140).
[0103] In an embodiment of the present invention, when the suction motor (140) is positioned above the second cyclone section (400), the air discharged from the second cyclone section (400) can flow directly toward the suction motor (140), so that the flow path between the second cyclone section (400) and the suction motor (140) can be minimized.
[0104] An air outlet (110a) for discharging air sucked in by the suction force of the suction motor (140) may be formed in the main body housing (110).
[0105] A flow guide may be arranged in the main body housing (110). The flow guide may guide the flow of air discharged through the air outlet (110a).
[0106] The handle (150) can be gripped by the user. For example, the handle (150) may be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder. Alternatively, the handle (150) may be formed in a curved cylinder shape. The handle (150) may be positioned at a predetermined angle with respect to the main body housing (110), the suction motor (140), or the first cyclone unit (130).
[0107] The handle (150) may include a grip portion formed in a pillar shape so that a user can grip it, a first extension portion connected to one longitudinal (axial) end of the grip portion and extending toward the suction motor (140), and a second extension portion connected to the other longitudinal (axial) end of the grip portion and extending toward the dust bin (200).
[0108] Meanwhile, in this embodiment, a virtual gripping portion penetration line can be formed by extending along the longitudinal direction of the gripping portion (axial direction of the column) and penetrating the gripping portion.
[0109] For example, the grip portion penetration line may be a virtual line formed inside a cylindrical handle (150), and may be a virtual line formed parallel to at least a portion of the outer surface (outer circumference) of the grip portion.
[0110] The upper surface of the handle (150) may form a portion of the appearance of the upper surface of the vacuum cleaner (1). This prevents the components of the vacuum cleaner (1) from coming into contact with the user's arm when the user holds the handle (150).
[0111] The first extension portion may extend from the grip portion toward the main body housing (110) or the suction motor (140). At least a portion of the first extension portion may extend in a horizontal direction.
[0112] The second extension may extend from the phasing portion toward the dust bin (200). At least a portion of the second extension may extend horizontally.
[0113] The control unit (170) may be positioned on the main body housing (110). The control unit (170) may be positioned on the outer surface of the main body housing (110). The control unit (170) may be composed of a plurality of buttons, and when a user presses a corresponding button, a corresponding command may be executed. The user may input an operation or stop command for the vacuum cleaner (1) through the control unit (170).
[0114] The vacuum cleaner (1) may include a dust bin (200). The dust bin (200) may be connected to a suction unit (120). A first cyclone unit (130) may be located inside the dust bin (200). The dust bin (200) may store dust separated from the first cyclone unit (130).
[0115] The dustbin (200) may include a dustbin body (210), a discharge cover (220), a dustbin compression lever (not shown), and a compressor (not shown).
[0116] The dustbin body (210) can provide a space for storing dust separated from the first cyclone unit (130). For example, the dustbin body (210) can be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.
[0117] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, a virtual dustbin central axis (a2) may be formed by penetrating the interior (internal space) of the dustbin main body (210) and extending along the longitudinal direction of the dustbin main body (210) (meaning the axial direction in the cylindrical dustbin main body (210). Accordingly, the longitudinal axis of the dustbin may mean the dustbin central axis (a2).
[0118] The lower surface (bottom surface) of the dustbin body (210) may be partially open. In addition, a lower extension (not shown) may be formed on the lower surface (bottom surface) of the dustbin body (210). The lower extension may be formed to block a portion of the lower surface of the dustbin body (210).
[0119] The dustbin (200) may include a discharge cover (220). The discharge cover (220) may be placed on the lower surface of the dustbin (200).
[0120] The discharge cover (220) may be provided to open and close one end in the longitudinal direction of the dustbin body (210). Specifically, the discharge cover (220) may selectively open and close the lower part of the dustbin (200) that opens downward.
[0121] The discharge cover (220) may include a cover body (221) and a hinge part (222). The cover body (221) may be formed to block a portion of the lower surface of the dustbin body (210). The cover body (221) may rotate downward based on the hinge part (222). The hinge part (222) may be arranged adjacent to the battery housing (160). A torsion spring may be provided in the hinge part (222). Therefore, when the discharge cover (220) is separated from the dustbin body (210), the cover body (221) may be supported in a state in which it is rotated by a predetermined angle or more about the hinge part (222) as an axis in the dustbin body (210) by the elastic force of the torsion spring.
[0122] The discharge cover (220) can be coupled to the dust bin (200) through a hook connection. Meanwhile, the discharge cover (220) can be separated from the dust bin (200) through a coupling lever (not shown). The coupling lever (not shown) can be arranged at the front of the dust bin (200). Specifically, the coupling lever (not shown) can be arranged on the outer surface of the front side of the dust bin (200). When an external force is applied, the coupling lever (not shown) can elastically deform a hook extended from the cover body (221) to release the hook connection between the cover body (221) and the dust bin body (210).
[0123] When the discharge cover (220) is closed, the lower surface of the dust bin (200) may be blocked (sealed) by the discharge cover (220) and the lower extension.
[0124] The dustbin (200) may include a dustbin compression lever. The dustbin compression lever may be disposed outside the dustbin (200). The dustbin compression lever may be disposed outside the dustbin (200) to move up and down. The dustbin compression lever may be connected to a compressor (not shown). When the dustbin compression lever moves downward due to an external force, the compressor (not shown) may also move downward. This may provide convenience to the user. The compressor (not shown) and the dustbin compression lever may return to their original positions by an elastic member (not shown). Specifically, when the external force applied to the dustbin compression lever is removed, the elastic member may move the dustbin compression lever and the compressor (not shown) upward.
[0125] A compressor (not shown) may be placed inside the dustbin body (210). The compressor may move within the internal space of the dustbin body (210). Specifically, the compressor may move up and down within the dustbin body (210). Through this, the compressor may compress dust within the dustbin body (210) downward. In addition, when the discharge cover (220) is separated from the dustbin body (210) and the lower portion of the dustbin (200) is opened, the compressor may move from the upper portion to the lower portion of the dustbin (200) to remove foreign substances such as residual dust within the dustbin (200). Through this, the suction power of the vacuum cleaner may be improved by preventing residual dust from remaining within the dustbin (200). In addition, by preventing residual dust from remaining within the dustbin (200), an unpleasant odor caused by the residual dust may be eliminated.
[0126] The vacuum cleaner (1) may include a battery housing (160). The battery housing (160) may accommodate a battery (161). The battery housing (160) may be positioned at the lower side of the handle (150). For example, the battery housing (160) may have a hexahedral shape with an open lower side. The upper surface of the battery housing (160) may be connected to the handle (150).
[0127] The battery housing (160) may include a receiving portion that opens downward. The battery (161) may be removed through the receiving portion of the battery housing (160).
[0128] The battery housing (160) may be provided with battery terminals exposed to the outside.
[0129] When the battery terminal of the battery housing (160) and the external charging terminal (not shown) are combined, power can be supplied to the battery (161) through the battery terminal. The battery terminal can be arranged spaced apart from each other on the lower surface of the battery housing (160).
[0130] The vacuum cleaner (1) may include a battery (161).
[0131] For example, the battery (161) may be detachably coupled to the vacuum cleaner (1). The battery (161) may be detachably coupled to the battery housing (160). For example, the battery (161) may be inserted into the interior of the battery housing (160) from the lower portion of the battery housing (160). With such a configuration, the portability of the vacuum cleaner (1) may be improved.
[0132] In contrast, the battery (161) may be integrally provided inside the battery housing (160). In this case, the lower surface of the battery (161) is not exposed to the outside.
[0133] The battery (161) stores electric energy and can supply power to each component including the suction motor (140) of the vacuum cleaner (1). The battery (161) may be placed at the bottom of the handle (150). The battery (161) may be placed at the bottom of the dustbin (200). That is, the suction motor (140) and the battery (161) may be placed so as not to overlap in the front-back direction, and may also be placed at different heights. With the handle (150) as the standard, the suction motor (140), which is heavier, is placed at the top of the handle (150), and the battery (161), which is lighter, is placed at the bottom of the handle (150), so that the weight of the entire vacuum cleaner (1) can be evenly distributed. This can prevent the user's wrist from being strained when the user holds the handle (150) and cleans.
[0134] In an embodiment, when the battery (161) is coupled to the battery housing (160), the lower surface of the battery (161) may be exposed to the outside. When the vacuum cleaner (1) is placed on the floor, the battery (161) may be placed on the floor, so that the battery (161) can be immediately separated from the battery housing (160). In addition, since the lower surface of the battery (161) is exposed to the outside and comes into direct contact with the external air of the battery (161), the cooling performance of the battery (161) may be improved.
[0135] Meanwhile, when the battery (161) is integrally fixed to the battery housing (160), the structure for attaching and detaching the battery (161) and the battery housing (160) can be reduced, so the overall size of the vacuum cleaner (1) can be reduced and its weight can be reduced.
[0136] The vacuum cleaner (1) may include an extension pipe (not shown). The extension pipe (not shown) may be connected to a cleaning module (not shown). The extension pipe (not shown) may be connected to the main body (100). The extension pipe (not shown) may be connected to a suction unit (120) of the main body (100). The extension pipe (not shown) may be formed in a long cylindrical shape.
[0137] The main body (100) can be connected to an extension pipe (not shown). The main body (100) can be connected to a cleaning module through the extension pipe (not shown). The main body (100) can generate suction force through a suction motor (140) and provide suction force to the cleaning module through the extension pipe (not shown). External dust can be introduced into the main body (100) through the cleaning module and the extension pipe (not shown).
[0138] The vacuum cleaner (1) may include a cleaning module (not shown). The cleaning module (not shown) may be connected to an extension tube (not shown). Accordingly, external air may be drawn into the main body (100) of the vacuum cleaner (1) through the cleaning module (not shown) and the extension tube (not shown) by the suction force generated in the main body (100) of the vacuum cleaner (1).
[0139] The vacuum cleaner (1) may include a first filter unit (300). The first filter unit (300) may filter air discharged from the first cyclone unit (130). The first filter unit (300) may guide air from which dust has been separated while passing through the first cyclone unit (130) to the second cyclone unit (400).
[0140] The first filter unit (300) may include a case (310, 1310) and a first filter (320).
[0141] The case (310, 1310) can be placed inside the dustbin (200). The case (310, 1310) can be placed inside the first cyclone unit (130).
[0142] A space may be formed inside the case (310, 1310). A second cyclone unit (400) may be placed inside the case (310, 1310).
[0143] The case (310, 1310) may be formed in a cylindrical shape, although this is not limited to the shape.
[0144] The case central axis (a4) can extend in the vertical direction. The case central axis (a4) can extend along the longitudinal direction of the case (310, 1310).
[0145] For example, the case central axis (a4) may be formed coaxially with the axis (a3) of the cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone section (130). As another example, the case central axis (a4) may be formed parallel to the axis (a3) of the cyclone flow generated in the first cyclone section (130). As yet another example, the case central axis (a4) of the case (310, 1310) may be formed coaxially with the suction motor axis (a1).
[0146] The first filter (320) can filter out dust from the air discharged from the first cyclone section (130).
[0147] The first filter (320) may have a plurality of holes having a predetermined diameter. Accordingly, large foreign substances contained in the air discharged from the first cyclone unit (130) can be filtered by the first filter (320).
[0148] The first filter (320) may be placed in the case (310, 1310). Alternatively, the first filter (320) may refer to a part of the case (310, 1310). Alternatively, the lower edge of the first filter (320) may be coupled to the case (310, 1310).
[0149] Air passing through the first filter (320) can be introduced into the second cyclone section (400) placed inside the case (310, 1310).
[0150] At this time, the outer and / or external side of the case (310, 1310) may refer to a direction facing the first cyclone section (130) based on the case (310, 1310), and the inner and / or internal side of the case (310, 1310) may refer to a direction facing the second cyclone section (400) based on the case (310, 1310).
[0151]
[0152] A vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a second cyclone unit (400).
[0153] The second cyclone unit (400) may be arranged at least partially inside the first cyclone unit (130) and may separate dust from the air discharged from the first cyclone unit (130). After the dust is separated from the air by the first cyclone unit (130), the air discharged from the first cyclone unit (130) may flow into the second cyclone unit (400) along the flow path.
[0154] The second cyclone section (400) may be formed by a set of axial cyclones formed to separate dust from air flowing in the axial direction.
[0155] The second cyclone section (400) may include a cyclone body (410), a vortex finder (420), and a band member (430).
[0156] The cyclone body (410) is a structure that applies the principle of a dust collector that uses centrifugal force to separate dust from air that has passed through the first filter unit (300). Specifically, the cyclone body (410) can separate dust from air that has passed through the first filter (320) by using cyclone flow. Since a space through which air can flow can be formed inside the cyclone body (410), air that has passed through the first filter (320) can be introduced into the inside of the cyclone body (410).
[0157] The cyclone body (410) may be placed inside the case (310, 1310). Specifically, at least a portion of the cyclone body (410) may be placed inside the case (310, 1310), and air passing through the first filter (320) may be introduced into the inside of the cyclone body (410).
[0158] A plurality of cyclone bodies (410) may be provided. Each cyclone body (410) may be formed with an inlet forming an outer wall around the hollow portion. The outer walls around the hollow portion formed by the cyclone bodies (410) may correspond to the outer walls of each axial cyclone. Air discharged from the first cyclone section (130) may be introduced into the cyclone body (410) through the inlet. Air circulating along the inner surface of the cyclone body (410) may form a cyclone flow.
[0159] Dust, which is heavier than air, can rotate within a vortex with a larger rotation radius than air. Since the dust rotates inside the cyclone body (410), the maximum rotation radius of the dust can be defined by the cyclone body (410).
[0160] The lower part of the cyclone body (410) may have a slanted shape that becomes narrower as it goes down. The lower part of the cyclone body (410) has a shape that becomes narrower as it goes down to induce the falling of dust separated from the air and prevent the dust from being discharged along the air to the vortex finder (420).
[0161] An exhaust port may be formed at the bottom of the cyclone body (410). That is, dust separated from the air inside the cyclone body (410) may be discharged from the cyclone body (410) through the exhaust port. In addition, the bottom of the cyclone body (410) may be communicated with the internal space of the storage member (311, 1311). Therefore, dust rotating along the vortex inside the cyclone body (410) may fall and be stored in the storage member (311, 1311). The dust stored in the storage member (311, 1311) may be communicated with the external space when the exhaust cover (220) is opened.
[0162] The upper portion of the cyclone body (410) may be formed to accommodate a vortex finder (420). The upper portion of the cyclone body (410) may be formed to have a constant inner diameter. The upper and lower portions of the cyclone body (410) may be distinguished based on the position where the inner diameter narrows.
[0163] The outer surface of each cyclone body (410) is connected to be in contact with the surrounding cyclone bodies (410), so that a plurality of cyclone bodies (410) may form a single member. It is preferable that the cross-section of each cyclone body (410) has a circular shape as illustrated in the drawing. This is because when the cross-section of the cyclone body (410) is formed in a circular shape, even if the outer surfaces of adjacent cyclone bodies (410) are in close contact with each other, a flow path for air and dust can be formed between them. If a flow path for air and dust is formed between the cyclone bodies (410), there is an advantage in that a separate flow path structure does not need to be installed.
[0164] It is not excluded that the cross-section of each cyclone body (410) may be formed as a polygon. However, even if the cross-section of each cyclone body (410) is formed as a polygon, it is preferable that it be formed as a polygon in which a path for air and dust can be formed.
[0165] The vortex finder (420) is configured to discharge air that has passed through the cyclone flow from the inside of the cyclone body (410).
[0166] A path through which air can flow may be formed inside the vortex finder (420). A plurality of vortex finders (420) may be provided, and at least a portion of each vortex finder (420) may be disposed inside each cyclone body (410). The outer surface of each vortex finder (420) may be spaced apart from the inner surface of each cyclone body (410). Each vortex finder (420) has an inlet forming an outer wall around the hollow portion, and air passing through the cyclone body (410) may be discharged through the inlet of each vortex finder (420). In addition, air introduced into the inlet of the vortex finder (420) may flow upward and be discharged through the outlet of the vortex finder (420).
[0167] The lower portion of the vortex finder (420) may have a higher height than the band member (430). However, the upper portion of the vortex finder (420) may have the same height as the band member (430). The lower portion of the vortex finder (420) may protrude below the band member (430), but the upper portion may not.
[0168] It is preferable that the cross-section of each vortex finder (420) has a circular ring shape. It is not excluded that the cross-section of each vortex finder (420) is formed into a polygon. However, even if the cross-section of each vortex finder (420) is formed into a polygon, it is preferable that it be formed into a polygon that can form a path for air and dust.
[0169] The band member (430) may be formed to surround the outer surface of the vortex finder (420). At this time, the band member (430) may be named by other names as needed. For example, names such as a ring portion, a ring portion, a border portion, a perimeter portion, a circle portion, a support portion, a connection portion, an outer portion, a cyclone boundary portion, an outer wall portion, etc. may be considered, and other names are also possible.
[0170] The band member (430) may be mounted on the first filter (320) and may have a shape corresponding to the upper portion of the first filter (320). The upper edge of the first filter (320) may be formed in a circular shape, and the band member (430) may also be formed in a circular shape that surrounds the vortex finder (420). However, this does not exclude the possibility that the upper portion of the first filter (320) and the band member (430) may be formed in a polygonal shape.
[0171] The guide vane (not shown) is configured to guide air discharged from the first cyclone section (130) toward the inside of the cyclone body (410). The guide vane (not shown) can form a flow path through which air introduced through the inlet can flow toward the inside of the cyclone body (410). Therefore, air flowing along the flow path formed by the guide vane (not shown) can form a swirling flow between the vortex finder (420) and the cyclone body (410).
[0172] At least a portion of the guide vane (not shown) may be positioned between the cyclone body (410) and the vortex finder (420) and may be connected to each cyclone body (410) and each vortex finder (420). One end of the guide vane (not shown) may be connected to the outer surface of the vortex finder (420) along a spiral direction, and the other end of the guide vane (not shown) may be connected to the inner surface of the cyclone body (410) along a spiral direction.
[0173] Each cyclone body (410) and each vortex finder (420) may be provided with a plurality of guide vanes (not shown), and the guide vanes (not shown) may extend in a spiral direction to generate a swirling flow. As the guide vanes (not shown) extend in a spiral direction, air and dust introduced into the inlet of the cyclone body (410) may form a swirling flow.
[0174] Below, the flow of air flowing through the path of the vacuum cleaner (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0175] First, when the suction motor (140) is operated, external air can be drawn into the dust bin (200) through the suction unit (120).
[0176] The air separated from dust by the first cyclone unit (130) inside the dust bin (200) can flow into the inside of the cyclone body (410) after passing through the first filter (320). The air drawn into the inside of the cyclone body (410) can fall while forming a swirling flow and then flow upwards to pass through the vortex finder (420). The air passing through the vortex finder (420) can have dust filtered in the second filter (500). The air filtered of dust in the second filter (500) can flow toward the suction motor (140) arranged downstream of the suction airflow. The air passing through the suction motor (140) can be discharged to the outside through the air outlet (110a).
[0177]
[0178] Meanwhile, a cleaner (1) according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a main body (100), a suction unit (120), a first filter (320), a second filter (500), and a cleaning unit (600).
[0179] The first filter (320) is disposed at least partially inside the dustbin (200) and can filter dust from air drawn in through the suction unit (120). The first filter (320) can be disposed to surround the second cyclone unit (400). For example, the first filter (320) can be a mesh filter. In addition, when the suction motor (140) is driven, the suction airflow can pass from the outside to the inside of the first filter (320).
[0180] The second filter (500) can filter dust from air passing through the first filter (320). For example, the second filter (500) may be a pre-filter. In addition, the second filter (500) may be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder with an open interior. In addition, when the suction motor (140) is driven, the suction airflow can pass from the outside to the inside of the second filter (500).
[0181] The first filter (320) and the second filter (500) may be arranged vertically along the central axis (a2) of the dustbin. In addition, the longitudinal axis of the first filter (320) and the longitudinal axis of the second filter (500) may form a coaxial line, and the longitudinal axes of the first filter (320) and the second filter (500) may be collectively referred to as the longitudinal axis (a5) of the filter.
[0182] At this time, the central axis of the dustbin (a2) and the longitudinal axis (a5) of the filter can form a coaxial line.
[0183] The first dust, which is dust filtered by the first filter (320), may accumulate on the first filter surface. The first filter surface may refer to the outer surface of the first filter (320). Specifically, the first filter surface may refer to the surface of the first filter (320) facing the inner surface of the dustbin body (210).
[0184] Second dust, which is dust filtered by the second filter (500), may accumulate on the second filter surface. The second filter surface may refer to the outer surface of the second filter (500). Specifically, the second filter surface may refer to the surface of the second filter (500) facing the inner surface of the filter housing (180).
[0185] The cleaning unit (600) can be movably arranged relative to the first filter (320) and the second filter (500).
[0186] The cleaning unit (600) can sweep away first dust and second dust from the first filter surface and the second filter surface, respectively.
[0187] The imaginary suction motor axis (a1) extending from the rotation axis of the suction motor (140) and the longitudinal axis of the dustbin (the central axis of the dustbin (a2)) can intersect each other. Accordingly, the suction motor axis (a1) and the longitudinal axis (a5) of the filter can also intersect each other.
[0188] The suction unit (120) and the suction motor (140) may be positioned on opposite sides of the dustbin's longitudinal axis (dustbin central axis (a2)). Due to this structure, the overall center of gravity of the vacuum cleaner is positioned as close as possible to the handle (150) held by the user, so that the user can move the vacuum cleaner (1) with minimal force.
[0189] The main body (100) may further include a filter housing (180).
[0190] A receiving space (180a) for receiving a second filter (500) may be formed inside the filter housing (180). In addition, a dust bin (200) may be detachably coupled to the filter housing (180).
[0191] The filter housing (180) and the dust bin (200) can be arranged vertically along the central axis (a2) of the dust bin or the longitudinal axis (a5) of the filter.
[0192] A filter entrance (180b) through which a second filter (500) can be inserted and removed may be formed on the upper side of the filter housing (180). Accordingly, a user can take the second filter (500) out through the filter entrance (180b).
[0193] The filter access port (180b) can be opened and closed through the filter access cover (190). The filter access cover (190) can be hingedly connected to the filter housing (180), and when the second filter (500) is to be taken out, the filter access port (180b) can be opened.
[0194] The cleaning unit (600) may include a first movable part (610), a second movable part (620), a connecting part (630), an operating housing (640), a guide member (650), an operating lever (660), and an elastic member (670).
[0195] The first movable part (610) can move along the space between the first filter surface and the inner surface of the dust bin (200) within the dust bin (200).
[0196] A first brush (611) composed of a plurality of bristles may be arranged on the inside of the first movable part (610). When the first movable part (610) moves along the central axis (a2) of the dust bin, the first brush (611) can sweep away dust accumulated on the first filter surface.
[0197] The second movable part (620) can move along the space between the second filter surface and the inner surface of the filter housing (180) within the filter housing (180).
[0198] A second brush (621) composed of a plurality of bristles may be arranged on the inside of the second movable part (620). When the second movable part (620) moves along the central axis (a2) of the dust bin, the second brush (621) can sweep away dust accumulated on the second filter surface.
[0199] The connecting portion (630) can connect the first movable portion (610) and the second movable portion (620).
[0200] Therefore, when the operation lever (660) is moved, the first movable part (610) and the second movable part (620) can be moved as one.
[0201] The connecting portion (630) can penetrate the filter housing (180). Specifically, a moving hole (not shown) through which the connecting portion (630) can move can be formed through the filter housing (180), and the connecting portion (630) can move in a direction parallel to the central axis (a2) of the dustbin through the moving hole (not shown).
[0202] Accordingly, a part of the connecting portion (630) may be placed in the space between the first filter surface and the dust bin (200), and the remaining part of the connecting portion (630) may be placed in the space between the second filter surface and the inner surface of the filter housing (180).
[0203] The connecting member (630) may include a first connecting member (631) and a second connecting member (632).
[0204] One side of the first connecting member (631) can be movably connected to the guide member (650), and the other side can be fixed to the first movable part (610).
[0205] Meanwhile, elastic members (670) may be placed on both sides of the first connecting member (631) combined with the guide member (650).
[0206] The elastic member (670) is arranged to surround the guide member (650) to be described later, and is configured to generate a restoring force in the opposite direction to the direction in which the operating lever (660) is moved when the user moves the operating lever (660).
[0207] The elastic member (670) may include a first elastic member (671) and a second elastic member (672).
[0208] A first elastic member (671) may be arranged on one side of the first connecting member (631), and a second elastic member (672) may be arranged on the other side. One side of the first elastic member (671) may be connected to the operating lever (660) and the guide member (650), and the other side may be connected to the first connecting member (631). One side of the second elastic member (672) may be connected to the first connecting member (631), and the other side may be connected to the guide member (650).
[0209] Additionally, one side of the second connecting member (632) may be fixed to the first movable part (610), and the other side may be fixed to the second movable part (620).
[0210] Accordingly, when the operating lever (660) is moved and the elastic member (670) is compressed, the first connecting member (631) can be moved along the guide member (650). In addition, the first movable part (610) connected to the first connecting member (631) and the second movable part (620) connected to the second connecting member (632) can also be moved.
[0211] The operating housing (640) can be coupled to the outside of the main body (100) and the dust bin (200). A guide member (650) can be accommodated inside the operating housing (640).
[0212] The internal space of the operating housing (640) may be communicated with the internal space of the dustbin (200). A moving slit (not shown) corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the operating housing (640) may be formed in the dustbin (200), and the connecting portion (630) may be connected to the guide member (650) while passing through the moving slit (not shown).
[0213] The guide member (650) can extend in the direction of movement of the first movable part (610) and the second movable part (620) inside the operating housing (640).
[0214] The operating lever (660) slides along the guide member (650) and may be exposed to the outside at least partially so that the user can grasp it.
[0215] The filter inlet (180b) can be opened toward the direction in which the elastic member (670) is elastically restored.
[0216] When the direction in which the elastic member (670) is compressed is referred to as the first direction, and the direction in which the elastic member (670) is elastically restored is referred to as the second direction, when the user moves the operating lever (660) in the first direction and then releases the operating lever (660), the second brush (621) can move the second filter (500) toward the filter entrance / exit (180b) while moving in the second direction. Accordingly, in a state in which the filter entrance / exit (180b) is open, at least a portion of the second filter (500) moved by the second brush (621) can be exposed to the outside through the filter entrance / exit (180b).
[0217] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 6, in the cleaner (1) according to the first embodiment of the present invention, four quadrants can be defined by a horizontal center line (HL1) and a vertical center line (VL1).
[0218] When looking at the discharge cover (220) from the filter access cover (190), the horizontal center line (HL1) horizontally crosses the center of the dustbin body (210) and can penetrate the outer circumference of the dustbin body (210). In this case, the horizontal direction may mean a direction that vertically intersects the longitudinal axis of the suction unit (120).
[0219] The vertical center line (VL1) intersects the horizontal center line (HL1) vertically, crosses the center of the dustbin body (210), and can extend parallel to the length direction of the suction unit (120).
[0220] The connecting portion (630) and the guide member (650) can be placed in the same quadrant among the four quadrants defined by the horizontal center line (HL1) and the vertical center line (VL1).
[0221] Due to this structure, the connecting portion (630) and the guide member (650) can be positioned as close as possible, so that the distance between the operating lever (660) and the cleaning unit (600) can be minimized when the user holds the operating lever (660). Accordingly, when the user wants to move the cleaning unit (600) to clean the dust accumulated in the first filter (320) and / or the second filter (500), the user can move the operating lever (660) with minimal force.
[0222]
[0223] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8a is a cross-sectional view of a cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8b is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the cleaning unit is moved downward in FIG. 8a, FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a filter housing according to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a plan view of a filter housing according to a second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 1-1 of FIG. 11, and FIG. 13 is a drawing for explaining the arrangement relationship between a connecting portion and a guide member according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
[0224] Referring to FIGS. 7 to 13, a cleaner (2) according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described as follows.
[0225] A cleaner (2) according to a second embodiment of the present invention may include a main body (100), a suction unit (120), a first filter (1320), a second filter (1500), and a cleaning unit (1600).
[0226] Meanwhile, in order to avoid redundant description, except for what is specifically mentioned in the second embodiment of the present invention, other configurations may be cited from the contents of the cleaner according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0227] The first filter (1320) is disposed at least partially inside the dustbin (200) and can filter dust from air drawn in through the suction unit (120). The first filter (1320) can be disposed to surround the second cyclone unit (400). For example, the first filter (1320) can be a mesh filter. In addition, when the suction motor (140) is driven, the suction airflow can pass from the outside to the inside of the first filter (1320).
[0228] The second filter (500) can filter dust from air passing through the first filter (1320). For example, the second filter (1500) can be an open pre-filter. Additionally, the second filter (1500) can be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder with an open interior. Additionally, when the suction motor (140) is driven, the suction airflow can pass from the outside to the inside of the second filter (1500).
[0229] At least a portion of the second filter (1500) may be placed inside the first filter (1320).
[0230] The cleaner (2) according to the second embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of miniaturization of the cleaner (2) since the second filter (1500) is placed inside the first filter (1320).
[0231] The first filter (1320) and the second filter (1500) may form a coaxial connection, and the longitudinal axes of the first filter (1320) and the second filter (1500) may be collectively referred to as the longitudinal axis (a6) of the filter.
[0232] At this time, the suction motor axis line extending the rotation axis of the suction motor (140), the dust bin central axis (a2), the cyclone flow axis (a3), the case central axis (a4), and the filter's longitudinal axis (a6) can form a coaxial line.
[0233] The first dust, which is dust filtered by the first filter (1320), may accumulate on the first filter surface. The first filter surface may refer to the outer surface of the first filter (1320). Specifically, the first filter surface may refer to the surface of the first filter (1320) facing the inner surface of the dustbin body (210).
[0234] Second dust, which is dust filtered by the second filter (1500), may accumulate on the second filter surface. The second filter surface may refer to the outer surface of the second filter (1500). Specifically, the second filter surface may refer to the surface of the second filter (1500) facing the inner surface of the filter housing (1180).
[0235] The cleaning unit (1600) can be movably arranged relative to the first filter (1320) and the second filter (1500).
[0236] The cleaning unit (1600) can sweep away first dust and second dust from the first filter surface and the second filter surface, respectively.
[0237] The cleaner (2) according to the second embodiment of the present invention may further include a filter housing (1180).
[0238] A receiving space (1180a) capable of receiving a second filter (1500) may be formed inside the filter housing (1180). The filter housing (1180) may be detachably coupled to the main body housing (110). At least a portion of the filter housing (1180) may be placed inside the dust bin (200). The filter housing (1180) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open interior.
[0239] Referring to FIG. 10, the first filter (1320) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the filter housing (1180).
[0240] A second cyclone unit (400) may be placed inside the filter housing (1180). Specifically, a plurality of cyclone bodies (410) may be placed inside the filter housing (180) and may be placed to surround the second filter (1500) with the second filter (1500) as the center.
[0241] The cleaning unit (600) may include a first movable part (1610), a second movable part (1620), a connecting part (1630), an operating housing (1640), a guide member (1650), an operating lever (1660), and an elastic member (not shown).
[0242] The first movable part (1610) can move along the space between the first filter surface and the inner surface of the dust bin (200) within the dust bin (200).
[0243] A first brush (611) composed of a plurality of bristles may be arranged on the inside of the first movable part (1610). When the first movable part (1610) moves along the central axis (a2) of the dustbin, the first brush (1611) can sweep away dust accumulated on the first filter surface.
[0244] The second movable part (1620) can move along the space between the second filter surface and the inner surface of the filter housing (1180) within the filter housing (1180).
[0245] A second brush (1621) composed of a plurality of bristles may be arranged on the inside of the second movable part (1620). When the second movable part (1620) moves along the central axis (a2) of the dustbin, the second brush (1621) can sweep away dust accumulated on the second filter surface.
[0246] The connecting portion (1630) can connect the first movable portion (1610) and the second movable portion (1620).
[0247] The connecting portion (1630) can penetrate the filter housing (1180). Specifically, a moving hole (not shown) through which the connecting portion (1630) can move can be formed through the filter housing (1180), and the connecting portion (1630) can move in a direction parallel to the central axis (a2) of the dustbin through the moving hole (not shown).
[0248] Accordingly, a part of the connecting portion (1630) may be placed in the space between the filter housing (1180) and the dust bin (200), and the remaining part of the connecting portion (1630) may be placed in the space between the second filter surface and the inner surface of the filter housing (1180).
[0249] The elastic member (not shown) is arranged to surround the guide member (1650) to be described later, and is configured to generate a restoring force in the opposite direction to the direction in which the operating lever (1660) is moved when the user moves the operating lever (1660).
[0250] One side of the elastic member (not shown) may be connected to the operating lever (1660), and the other side may be connected to the connecting portion (1630). Accordingly, when the operating lever (1660) is moved and the elastic member (not shown) is compressed, the first movable portion (1610), the second movable portion (1620), and the connecting portion (1630) may be moved along the longitudinal direction of the guide member (1650).
[0251] The operating housing (1640) can be coupled to the outside of the main body (100) and the dust bin (200). A guide member (1650) can be accommodated inside the operating housing (1640).
[0252] The internal space of the operating housing (1640) may be communicated with the internal space of the dustbin (200). A moving slit (not shown) corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the operating housing (1640) may be formed in the dustbin (200), and the connecting portion (1630) may be connected to the guide member (1650) while passing through the moving slit (not shown).
[0253] The guide member (1650) can extend in the direction of movement of the first movable part (1610) and the second movable part (1620) inside the operating housing (1640).
[0254] The operating lever (1660) slides along the guide member (1650) and may be at least partially exposed to the outside so that the user can grasp it.
[0255] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 13, in the cleaner (2) according to the second embodiment of the present invention, four quadrants can be defined by a horizontal center line (HL2) and a vertical center line (VL2).
[0256] When looking at the discharge cover (220) from the air discharge cover (111) described later, the horizontal center line (HL2) horizontally crosses the center of the dustbin body (210) and can penetrate the outer surface of the dustbin body (210). In this case, the horizontal direction may mean a direction that vertically intersects the longitudinal axis of the suction unit (120).
[0257] The vertical center line (VL2) intersects the horizontal center line (HL2) vertically, crosses the center of the dustbin body (210), and can extend parallel to the length direction of the suction unit (120).
[0258] The connecting portion (1630) and the guide member (1650) can be placed in the same quadrant among the four quadrants defined by the horizontal center line (HL2) and the vertical center line (VL2).
[0259] Due to this structure, the connecting portion (1630) and the guide member (1650) can be positioned as close as possible, so that the distance between the operating lever (1660) and the cleaning unit (1600) can be minimized when the user holds the operating lever (1660). Accordingly, when the user wants to move the cleaning unit (1600) to clean the dust accumulated in the first filter (1320) and / or the second filter (1500), the user can move the operating lever (1660) with minimal force.
[0260] Meanwhile, the cleaner (2) according to the second embodiment of the present invention may include an air exhaust cover (111). The air exhaust cover (111) may be arranged on one axial side of the main body housing (110). The air exhaust cover (111) may accommodate a filter for filtering air. For example, the air exhaust cover (111) may accommodate a HEPA filter.
[0261] An air discharge port (112) for discharging air sucked in by the suction force of the suction motor (140) may be formed in the air discharge cover (111).
[0262] A flow guide may be arranged in the air discharge cover (111). The flow guide may guide the flow of air discharged through the air discharge port (112).
[0263] Meanwhile, the cleaner (1, 2) according to the embodiment of the present invention can be coupled to a cleaner station equipped with a dust collecting motor that generates a suction airflow and a dust collecting unit that collects dust stored in a dust bin (200) of the cleaner (1, 2). At this time, when the internal space of the dust bin (200) and the dust collecting unit are connected by a separate passage, when the suction airflow of the dust collecting motor is generated, the dust stored in the dust bin (200) of the cleaner (1, 2) can be moved to the dust collecting unit.
[0264] Accordingly, when the cleaner (1, 2) according to the embodiment of the present invention is coupled to the cleaner station and the dust collection motor is driven while the discharge cover (220) is open, the dust of the first filter (320, 1320) and the second filter (500, 1500) swept away by the cleaning unit (600, 1600) can be captured by the dust collection unit.
[0265]
[0266] Although the present invention has been described in detail through specific examples, this is for the purpose of specifically explaining the present invention, and the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is clear that the present invention can be modified or improved by a person having ordinary knowledge in the relevant field within the technical spirit of the present invention.
[0267] All simple modifications or changes of the present invention fall within the scope of the present invention, and the specific scope of protection of the present invention will be made clear by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A main body including a dust bin where dust is stored; A suction unit that guides air into the dustbin; A first filter, at least part of which is disposed inside the dust bin, for filtering dust from air drawn in through the suction portion; A second filter that filters dust from air passing through the first filter; and A cleaning unit movably arranged relative to the first filter and the second filter; The above first filter is, It includes a first filter surface on which first dust, which is dust filtered by the first filter, accumulates; The above second filter is, A second filter surface on which second dust, which is dust filtered by the second filter, accumulates; A vacuum cleaner characterized in that the cleaning unit sweeps the first dust and the second dust from the first filter surface and the second filter surface, respectively.
2. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a suction motor that generates a suction airflow so that air is sucked in through the above suction unit; A vacuum cleaner characterized in that a virtual suction motor axis line extending from the rotation axis of the suction motor and the longitudinal axis of the dust bin intersect each other.
3. In paragraph 2, A vacuum cleaner characterized in that the suction unit and the suction motor are arranged on opposite sides based on the longitudinal axis of the dustbin.
4. In paragraph 2, The above body, A vacuum cleaner further comprising a filter housing detachably connected to the dust bin and housing the second filter.
5. In paragraph 4, A vacuum cleaner characterized in that a filter entrance / exit portion for entering / exiting the filter is formed on one side of the filter housing.
6. In paragraph 5, The above cleaning unit, A first movable part that moves along the space between the first filter surface and the inner surface of the dustbin within the dustbin; A second movable part that moves along the space between the second filter surface and the inner surface of the filter housing within the filter housing; and A vacuum cleaner characterized by including a connecting portion penetrating the filter housing and connecting the first movable portion and the second movable portion.
7. In paragraph 6, The above cleaning unit, An operating housing coupled to the above body; A guide member extending in the direction of movement of the first movable part and the second movable part inside the operating housing; An operating lever that moves along the guide member and at least a portion of which is exposed to the outside; and A vacuum cleaner further comprising an elastic member disposed on the guide member, one side of which is connected to the operating lever, and the other side of which is connected to the connecting portion.
8. In paragraph 7, A vacuum cleaner characterized in that the filter entrance is opened toward the direction in which the elastic member is elastically restored.
9. In paragraph 7, The above connecting part and the above guide member, A vacuum cleaner characterized in that it is placed in the same quadrant among four quadrants divided by a horizontal center line crossing the center of the dust bin and a vertical center line crossing the center of the dust bin.
10. In paragraph 1, A vacuum cleaner, characterized in that at least a portion of the second filter is disposed inside the first filter.
11. In paragraph 10, A vacuum cleaner characterized in that the first filter and the second filter form a coaxial structure.
12. In paragraph 10, The above body, A vacuum cleaner further comprising a filter housing disposed inside the dust bin and accommodating at least a portion of the second filter.
13. In paragraph 12, A cleaner characterized by further comprising a plurality of cyclone bodies arranged inside the filter housing and arranged to surround the second filter with the second filter as the center.
14. In paragraph 12, The above cleaning unit, A first movable part that moves along the space between the first filter surface and the inner surface of the dustbin within the dustbin; A second movable part that moves along the space between the second filter surface and the inner surface of the filter housing within the filter housing; and A vacuum cleaner characterized by including a connecting portion penetrating the filter housing and connecting the first movable portion and the second movable portion.
15. In paragraph 14, The above cleaning unit, An operating housing coupled to the above body; A guide member extending in the direction of movement of the first movable part and the second movable part inside the operating housing; An operating lever that moves along the guide member and at least a portion of which is exposed to the outside; and A vacuum cleaner further comprising an elastic member disposed on the guide member, one side of which is connected to the operating lever, and the other side of which is connected to the connecting portion.
16. In paragraph 15, The above connecting part and the above guide member, A vacuum cleaner characterized in that it is placed in the same quadrant among four quadrants divided by a horizontal center line crossing the center of the dust bin and a vertical center line crossing the center of the dust bin.
Citation Information
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